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The Florida Python Challenge 2025, the annual competition to capture invasive Burmese pythons in the southern part of the state, concluded with a record of 294 specimens removed and $25,000 in prizes awarded to the top participants.
The grand prize of $10,000 was awarded to influencer Taylor Stanberry, who captured 60 snakes during the 10 days of the event, which took place from July 11 to July 20, with the participation of 934 people from 30 states and Canada.
"Each invasive python removed makes a difference for Florida's environment and its native wildlife," emphasized Ron Bergeron, a member of the Board of Directors of the South Florida Water Management District, one of the organizing entities.
The competition also awarded prizes in different categories: professionals, beginners, and military participants, both for the highest number of catches and for the longest snake
Longest Python – Beginner Level: Michael Marousky (4.5 m)
Longest Python – Professional Level: Kennith Chamberland (2.7 m)
Longest Python – Military Level: Jonathan Miller (3.4 m)
Highest Number of Pythons – Beginner Level: Krista Hoekstra (14)
Highest Number of Pythons – Professional Level: Donna Kalil (56)
Highest Number of Pythons – Military Level: John Southworth (5)
Second places were also awarded, with Kymberly Clark, Hannah Gray, and Matthew Jamison in their respective divisions.
The Burmese python is a invasive species introduced in Florida in the 1970s through the pet trade. Its presence has become a serious threat to native wildlife, especially in the Everglades, where they prey on mammals and birds, including endangered species.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), pythons have established themselves from the south of Lake Okeechobee to Key Largo and have been detected in areas such as Naples and around Lake Okeechobee.
Since the challenge began in 2013, more than 1,400 pythons have been removed thanks to citizen participation and wildlife control efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Python Challenge in Florida
What is the Python Challenge in Florida?
The Python Challenge in Florida is an annual competition aimed at reducing the population of Burmese pythons, an invasive species that threatens the ecosystem of the Everglades. The event offers prizes to participants who capture the most snakes and to those who catch the longest ones.
Why is it important to eliminate Burmese pythons from Florida?
Burmese pythons are an invasive species that have no natural predators in Florida, leading to a serious ecological imbalance. These snakes negatively impact native wildlife, preying on mammals, birds, and reptiles, including some that are endangered.
What are the rules for participating in the Python Challenge?
To participate, it is necessary to register online and complete a virtual course on safe and ethical hunting. The rules prohibit the use of firearms and animals for hunting, and establish that only professional hunters can carry live pythons. Additionally, participants must correctly identify the species to avoid harming protected native snakes.
How many pythons were captured in the Python Challenge 2025?
At the Python Challenge 2025, a total of 294 Burmese pythons were captured. This event brought together 934 participants from 30 states and Canada, who collaborated to reduce the threat that these snakes pose to Florida's native wildlife.
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